Update 6/28/11 – This KR200 sold with 25 bids for an impressive $17,402.

After WWII ended Messerschmitt AG, the aircraft manufacture that built German fighter planes, faced rebuilding as well as many new restrictions on what it could produce. In the early 1950’s it turned to manufacturing small vehicles in an attempt to stay afloat. The company began building these three wheeled two passenger bubble cars. This KR200 is a survivor and appears to be in excellent condition. Find it here on eBay with a current bid of $8,700. And how can you say “no” to a smile like that!

This KR200 is currently in the U.K., but could easily be shipped over to the States. We would love to see this little two seater on U.S. roads. It’s definitely a unique vehicle and we doubt you’d ever run into another one while running errands. These three wheelers are extremely durable and will last a long time. Messerschmitt even ran one for 24 hours straight on the Hockenheimring. The KR200 used had a modified engine and a more aero dynamic body, but was otherwise original. The car broke 22 speed records and was able to maintain a 64 mph average.

The KR200 is powered by 200 cc two stroke engine that produces about 10 hp. The engine is mounted to a 4 speed sequential gear box. The engine was configured so that it could be run both directs allowing for reverse movement, which means you have 4 reverse gears as well. While the engine doesn’t have much power, it’s enough to get this thing up to 60 mph. We think this would be a great city car and you wouldn’t ever have a hard time finding a parking spot.

Getting in and out of these three wheelers looks like an interesting process. The whole canopy, including windshield and side windows, lifts open allowing the driver and passenger to step into the car. You might also notice that the steering wheel isn’t a wheel, but a bar. Steering the KR200 is more like flying a plane, as you push the bar to turn instead of turning it. These little cars are really interesting and a cool part of post war history. We hope this KR200 ends up in a good home.